840.20/3–1949: Telegram
The Ambassador in Portugal (MacVeagh) to the Secretary of State
urgent
99. Deptel 77, March 19 [18].1 Both Ronald and I feel that Portuguese Government is now inclining to refuse invitation if answers to all three questions are negative but that is not yet convinced of desirability of doing so, which leaves us further room for action. Much publicity given announcement of treaty in all papers this morning, apparently in view of possible adherence. However, Salazar2 still able explain that after careful examination of document he feels Portuguese sovereign interests insufficiently covered in matter duration, and this would probably satisfy local public opinion favorable to treaty, particularly if accompanied by allusion to possible future invitation under Article 10.
In these circumstances, and provided Department really wishes Portuguese signature now, I recommend earliest sending of warmly earnest personal message from Secretary Acheson to Salazar, emphasizing great importance attaching to maximum unity among Atlantic Powers for discouragement aggression and playing up in some degree to characteristic Portuguese susceptibilities now clearly affected by receiving text as fait accompli with only few days allowed for decision to adhere. As regards duration, it would be well if such message could explain that provision for review of treaty after ten years means possibility of such alterations in text as any one of the parties feel may be desirable at that time or thereafter in view of changed conditions. But in any case, matter is now on highest level here, and as Salazar is notably averse to long-term international agreements, as evidenced by Azores negotiations and recently renewed Spanish-Portuguese treaty of friendship and non-aggression, an appeal to his statesmanship to view present matter in larger light required by world situation would seem appropriate and might prove effective.
In this connection, I presume the Department will have received a copy of the message sent by Mr. Bevin to Dr. Salazar through Portuguese Ambassador London.